The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has raised concerns about extending Ghana’s presidential term from four to five years, arguing that the priority should instead be to ensure elected governments are ready to work immediately after taking office.
Former Chief Justice and IEA Fellow, Sophia Akuffo, said the institute does not support the proposal by the Constitutional Review Committee to increase the tenure of the President and Parliament.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, she said the existing four-year presidential term should be maintained.
“I think we did mention that the proposal by the Prempeh Committee, which of course is acceptable to the Executive, that the term should be five years rather than four years and the IEA says no, we do not support such an extension,” she said.
According to Madam Akuffo, extending the tenure would not address what she considers a more pressing governance challenge—the delays that often occur before newly elected administrations become fully operational.
She argued that presidential candidates should enter elections with a clear policy agenda and a team capable of implementing their programmes once they assume office.
“One would expect that you arrive and you’re on your feet and you’re running and within hours of assuming office you’re naming your ministers, you’re naming your regional ministers and so on and so forth,” she said.
Her comments come after the government accepted the Constitutional Review Committee’s recommendation to extend the tenure of both the President and Parliament from four to five years.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, announced the government’s position in July 2026 as part of its response to the committee’s recommendations.
The IEA’s position therefore places it at odds with the government on one of the major proposed constitutional changes, as discussions continue over the implementation of the review recommendations.
Madam Akuffo’s argument centres on improving the efficiency of political transitions, particularly the appointment of ministers, regional ministers and governing boards of public institutions, rather than simply increasing the length of time elected officials remain in office.
